Planning a Wedding in Regional Victoria? Here's What You Need to Know

There's something really special about getting married outside the city. The space, the quiet, the scenery — regional Victoria has a way of making everything feel a little more relaxed and a lot more personal. If you've been dreaming of open fields, fresh air and a venue that feels like it's truly yours for the day, you're in the right place.

Leonards Hill Estate sits just 10 minutes from Daylesford — close enough to everything you need, but far enough away to feel like a proper escape.

1. Think About Accommodation and Transport Early (Your Guests Will Thank You)

One of the most common things couples forget to plan for is where everyone's staying and how they're getting there. If most of your guests are coming from Melbourne or further afield, sorting this early makes the whole weekend feel effortless.

Staying in Daylesford

Daylesford has a great mix of accommodation — boutique B&Bs, hotels, Airbnbs, and more affordable options like motels and holiday parks, so there's genuinely something for every budget and travel style.

As a rough guide:

• Airbnbs and private rentals typically range from around $250–$1,000 per night depending on the number of rooms and the property

• Hotels and boutique stays sit in a similar range, with some lovely options in the $300–$600 bracket

• Motels and holiday parks are a great option for guests who want something simple and affordable — a good one to point budget-conscious guests toward

We'd suggest sending your guests a shortlist of options early — places fill up fast in the Daylesford region, especially on weekends.

Getting to the Venue

Leonards Hill Estate is about 10 minutes from Daylesford, so you'll want to think about transport for your guests. The most popular option is hiring a coach or shuttle, and for a wedding of 80–100 guests you're generally looking at $2,000–$4,000 for the evening depending on the operator and run times. It sounds like a lot, but split across a full guest list it's a small cost for big peace of mind — everyone can have a drink and enjoy the night without worrying about driving.

If a full coach isn't in the budget, standard taxis and maxi taxis do service the area — but here's the thing: they're limited, so if your guests are planning to rely on them, they need to book well in advance. It's worth flagging this clearly on your wedding website or in your invites so no one gets caught out on the night.

Staying On-Site

The Homestead is included in your venue hire, sleeping up to six guests — perfect for the couple and your closest family or wedding party to stay the night of your wedding. If you'd like to arrive at the Estate the night before, additional nights in the Homestead are available subject to availability. Just ask us when you enquire and we'll let you know what's possible for your date.

The main bedroom at our cosy Homestead on-site.

2. Make the Most of Flexible Spaces

One of the best things about an estate venue is having options. At Leonards Hill Estate, you're not locked into one space for the whole day. You can mix and match based on your vision and the weather:

• The Lawns for open-air vows with the landscape as your backdrop

• The Shed for your reception — a stunning space that blends modern design, country charm and industrial style all in one

• The Pavilion for post-ceremony drinks and canapés while you disappear for photos

Having that flexibility means your day flows naturally, and if Victoria decides to do its thing weather-wise, you've always got a plan B that still looks incredible.

Our Grand Tree ceremony area, beautifully styled with draping and florals.

3. Go Local With Your Suppliers

Regional weddings are a genuine opportunity to work with local talent — florists, caterers, photographers and entertainers who know the area, understand the light, and often have existing relationships with the venue. That familiarity makes everything run smoother on the day.

And as a bonus, your guests get to experience the Daylesford region properly — mineral spas, charming cafes, great food and wine. Many couples find their guests turn it into a full weekend away, which makes the whole celebration feel even more special.

4. Plan for the Weather (Victoria Will Be Victoria)

We love regional Victoria — but we also know that a sunny forecast can change quickly. The good news is that planning for it isn't complicated when you have the right venue and team behind you.

At Leonards Hill Estate, we help you think through wet weather options from the start, and we'll chat through what each season looks like — including what's in bloom and what the light is like at different times of year. There are no nasty surprises when you've planned with flexibility in mind.

5. Enjoy Having the Whole Place to Yourselves

This one matters more than people realise until they experience it. When you book a private estate, you're not sharing your wedding day with strangers at another function down the hall. The whole venue is yours — the styling, the schedule, the vibe. All of it.

At Leonards Hill Estate, that means you can take your time, do things your way, and create a day that genuinely feels like you.

Ready to Start Planning?

A regional wedding doesn't have to be complicated — especially when your venue comes with flexibility, a great team, and a setting that does most of the heavy lifting.

Book a private tour at Leonards Hill Estate and come and see it for yourself. We'd love to show you around.